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Alief Hastings' Carley Barron
ALL THE RIGHT MOVES: Hastings has made lasting impression on Barron
However, it wasn’t always so simple for Barron.
“Because of COVID, I never really played on a full team until my freshman year,” she said. “I was always a quiet kid so it was difficult for me to make friends. I feel like that’s changed over time since being here, because I’ve been able to express myself more and be in my element.”
Barron has clearly found her voice within the program, which is why head coach Courtney Rodgers decided to name her one of the team’s captains heading into this winter.
Bradley C. Collier (VYPE)
“I feel like I’ve grown to be a really good leader,” said Barron. “That relates to the way I communicate with my teammates – talking to the defense, helping to control the flow of the passing game, keeping everyone on the same page."
If that wasn’t enough, Barron has committed herself to more than just soccer, in order to further come out of her shell.
“I’m in cross country and the school’s marching band at the same time,” she said. “So, it’s hard for me to manage my time, but I’m still able to do it all. People are surprised because I also have club soccer after school and band practices. It’s really tiring during this time of year, but I want to make sure I’m not missing out.”
When she’s not playing the clarinet for the band program, running the trails, or helping to lead the Bears on the pitch, this senior has her sights set on the future.
“I hope to play soccer in college,” Barron said. “It’s been a dream of mine for a while. Even if I don’t, I’m planning to major in Engineering or maybe Computer Science. That way I can have some security for my career down the road.”
If it hasn’t been evidenced enough already, Barron’s time at Hastings High has unquestionably impacted her for the better.
As she walks the stage next semester, it will be known that she’s made all the right moves.
Alief Hastings' Smith Orogbo
TARDY TO THE PARTY: Hastings' Orogbo a future star in the making
The 6-foot-4 outside linebacker looks like a natural in pads and is just learning the game. His future and upside are so bright that colleges across the country were vying for his commitment over the off-season.
“When talking about legacy, I want to be that guy,” he said. “I hope to set an all-time record in sacks or tackles for losses, which is abig thing to aspire to. Overall, I just want to leave it all out there during my last year, with no questions left to be asked.”
New coach Michael Carter’s eyes light up with he talks of his stud senior.
“Yeah, a few years from now, this guy is going to be playing on Sundays,” he said. “He just has ‘it’.”
The first-team, all-district selection in 2023 has expanded his game entering his senior year.
Bradley C. Collier (VYPE)
“It’s a little hard to believe, but I’m just going into my fourth year of playing football, in general,” he said. “When I was going into high school, I wanted to play basketball. I saw my brother play football so I figured I might as well give it a shot. After I got my first hit in practice, I knew that this was the sport for me.
“I’ve enjoyed the opportunities that I’ve been given here, and now it’s my time to lead through my vocals and through my actions. I’m going to try to help pick my team up on the defensive side of the ball all season.”
Orogbo likes to model his game after professional players such as Nick Bosa (San Francisco 49ers), Micah Parsons (Dallas Cowboys)and Maxx Crosby (Las Vegas Raiders).
While he has NFL aspirations, first things first.
“Once I first get there (Texas), I’m going to be a sponge,” said Orogbo. “I’ll be trying to soak up all the information I can and keep up my work ethic as I look up to the guys in front of me. I’ll have to be patient for when my time comes. Until then, all I can do is continue to work on my craft and get better as a player.”
The way that the soon-to-be Longhorn composes himself on the field speaks for itself. So, what does he do when he’s not in pads?
“When I’m not hanging with the guys, you’ll probably see me watching some movies and shows,” Orogbo said. “I’m a big fan of The Boys, the Planet of the Apes trilogy and The Walking Dead. I really like Spider-Man,too. Something else people might know about me is that I like to listen to music by Nirvana.”
The stars of 2024-25 Alief Hastings FootballBradley C. Collier (VYPE)
But, back to football.
Hastings will be moving over to District 20-6A this Fall, which brings new competition in the district– namely Fulshear, Foster, George Ranch and Strake Jesuit.
With Orogbo being the first one off the bus for Hastings, the Bears will be in the conversation for a district title and surely a playoff spot.
Are the Bears back in business?